Iran has approved a plan to charge tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic maritime routes. The measure, cleared by the Iranian parliament’s National Security Commission, is part of a broader effort to regulate passage through the strait, which carries about 20% of global crude oil exports. The exact toll amounts have not yet been disclosed.
Under the plan, vessels linked to the United States, Israel, and countries that have imposed unilateral sanctions on Iran will be denied passage. Iran says the system will be implemented in cooperation with Oman, which shares control of the strait.
Shipping traffic through the Strait has already dropped sharply following regional tensions and U.S.-Israel military actions. Analysts say that the toll system formalizes Iran’s growing influence over the waterway, while still allowing access for “friendly” nations.
The move has raised concerns internationally, as the Strait of Hormuz is considered an international waterway, and restrictions or tolls could violate principles of innocent passage under international law. Global oil markets are closely monitoring the situation, as any disruption in shipping through the strait could further increase energy prices worldwide.
